June 30

Ambassador John Roos made his third visit to Japan's tsunami-affected region from June 27-29, in order to show the continuing U.S. support for the reconstruction efforts and to send a message that Japan is safe and open for business.

While in the region, the Ambassador met with local officials and students, heard the moving stories of American JET teachers still working in the disaster areas, and visited the elementary school where Monty Dickson (one of the two American citizens killed in the tsunami) taught English. In Ofunato, he visited the fire department which served as a base for U.S. search-and-rescue teams who arrived in Japan just days after March 11 to assist in the relief operations. Also in Ofunato, the Ambassador teamed up with "All Hands," an American volunteer organization, to help clean up a damaged car dealership.

In Otsuchi, the Ambassador was treated to a traditional dance performance by local students and participated in a cookout with families from the region. He ended his trip in Hiraizumi, where he visited the temple complex which was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Throughout the visit, the Ambassador reiterated his message that the United States will continue to stand by the people of Japan as they work to rebuild in the wake of the March 11 disasters.